9. Look for a pattern. If your kids are fighting, try to identify a common thread, says Pantley. "Do they typically fight over one thing, say the computer, or choice of TV shows? If so, schedule computer or TV use. Do they always fight while you’re making dinner? You could enlist their help in preparing the meal, feed them a healthy snack, or have a routine activity planned during that time, such as homework or chores. The idea here is to identify the "hot spots" between your children and create a plan to prevent the problem from continually causing arguments."

10. Think simple. "Kids will fight longer, louder and with more enthusiasm when they have an audience," says Pantley. "Usually it’s because they hope you’ll step in and solve the problem. Therefore, it stands to reason that if you leave the room, they will have to solve the problem themselves. A large amount of verbal battles will fizzle out without a parent’s interference."